Policies on Acquisition and Deaccessioning of Artworks at the Louvre Museum

Introduction

The Louvre Museum, as one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world, has established comprehensive policies regarding the acquisition and deaccessioning of artworks. These policies are crucial in maintaining the museum's integrity, ensuring the collection's growth, and preserving its cultural heritage. This article outlines the specific protocols the Louvre adheres to in these processes.

Details

• Acquisition Policies

  • Criteria for Acquisition
    • Artworks must enhance the existing collection, filling thematic or stylistic gaps.
    • Preference is given to pieces that possess significant historical, cultural, or artistic value.
    • The provenance of the artwork must be traceable, ensuring it has not been acquired through illegal means.
  • Methods of Acquisition
    • Purchases from auction houses or galleries operate under market value assessments.
    • Donations from private collectors or institutions are encouraged and considered valuable for enriching the collection.
    • Exchanges or loans from other museums may facilitate acquisition through collaboration.
  • Approval Process
    • Proposals for new acquisitions are submitted to a dedicated acquisition committee.
    • This committee comprises curators, art historians, and legal advisors assessing the potential artwork's relevance and legality.
    • Final decisions are subject to approval by the museum's director and relevant governance bodies.

• Deaccessioning Policies

  • Criteria for Deaccessioning
    • Artworks can be considered for deaccessioning if they do not align with the museum's mission or strategic goals.
    • Condition issues may lead to deaccessioning if the artwork cannot be preserved or restored effectively.
    • Replications, duplicates, or items with low exhibition potential may also be candidates.
  • Methods of Deaccessioning
    • Items can be sold at auction, with proceeds reinvested in the acquisition of new works.
    • Donations or transfers to other non-profit institutions may be an option if the piece is deemed more appropriate for another collection.
    • Destruction is a last resort, and only considered for items that are irreparably damaged and lack historical significance.
  • Approval Process
    • Similar to acquisitions, proposals for deaccessioning undergo review by a deaccessioning committee, which includes legal scrutiny to ensure compliance with ethical standards.
    • The recommendation must be approved by the museum's director and relevant governing bodies before any action is taken.

Conclusion

The Louvre Museum’s acquisition and deaccessioning policies are designed to uphold its esteemed reputation and responsibility to cultural heritage. By adhering to strict criteria and having a transparent approval process for both acquiring and deaccessioning artworks, the museum ensures that its collection remains significant, ethically obtained, and aligned with its mission to educate and inspire future generations.